The Denver Broncos faced a disappointing defeat in their first playoff game since Super Bowl 50, suffering against the Buffalo Bills. Despite the lackluster performance, the Broncos had an impressive season overall and will benefit from the playoff experience. Quarterback Bo Nix had mixed results, showcasing both questionable decisions and impressive throws. The team struggled with their running back choices, leaving Javonte Williams underwhelming despite a decent yards-per-carry average.

Wide receivers Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims had contrasting performances, with Sutton emerging as a reliable target, while Mims and Devaughn Vele underperformed. On the offensive line, Garett Bolles stood out positively, contrasting with Mike McGlinchey's struggles. The defense saw some bright spots with Zach Allen's dominating performance, but overall, the unit struggled against a powerful Bills offense. Major adjustments will be necessary as the Broncos look to improve for next season.

The Denver Broncos are gearing up for their first playoff game since the 2015 season, and defensive coordinator Vance Joseph's name is emerging as a candidate for a head coaching position. Joseph has significantly improved the Broncos' defense, transforming it from one of the league's worst to a top-10 group in just one season. He expressed gratitude for interest from the New York Jets but stressed that his primary focus remains on the upcoming wild-card game against Buffalo.

Joseph, a former head coach of the Broncos from 2017 to 2018, received a request for an interview from the Jets, acknowledging the request as flattering, while emphasizing the importance of the game ahead. His successful defensive strategies have led the Broncos to rank first in sacks, seventh in total yards allowed, and third in points allowed per game this season.

The Denver Broncos have successfully broken their playoff drought, marking the first time they will be evaluated for a playoff game under this grading system. With a youthful roster, the Broncos have surprised many experts by controlling the game against the Kansas City Chiefs, resulting in a shutout loss for head coach Andy Reid. As the playoffs loom, the team's individual performances will be highlighted in this final grading of the regular season.

Quarterback Bo Nix excelled with a grade of 84.7, showcasing near perfection despite a late first-half mistake. The running backs displayed mixed results, with Javonte Williams leading at 60.5, while Michael Burton and Jaleel McLaughlin followed with lower grades, reflecting their varying contributions. In the receiving corps, Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr. stood out with grades of 84.1 and 80.5.

The Denver Broncos have honored safety P.J. Locke with the Ed Block Courage Award for 2023, recognizing his exceptional courage and dedication shown during his recovery from injuries. Chosen by his teammates, Locke's commitment to rehabilitation after suffering a left great toe dislocation and a throat contusion exemplifies the award's principles of sportsmanship and character.

Locke's journey with the Broncos began as a college free agent from the University of Texas in 2019. He has played in 73 games, including 22 starts, showcasing his growth and resilience on the field. This season, he has been a key player, starting in all but one game and contributing significantly to the team's defense.

Pat Surtain II has been honored not only as a Pro Bowl starter for the second consecutive year but has also been named the Demaryius Thomas Team MVP by the Denver chapter of the Pro Football Writers Association. This recognition marks Surtain’s third consecutive Pro Bowl selection and his third straight MVP award from local reporters, highlighting his consistent performance and impact on the team.

Outside linebacker Nik Bonitto, also selected for the AFC Pro Bowl, was a contender for the MVP award, showcasing the depth of talent on the Broncos' roster. In a separate accolade, outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper received the Darrent Williams Good Guy Award, which honors a player who embodies the spirit of cooperation and enthusiasm, reminiscent of the late Broncos defensive back.

Additionally, safety P.J. Locke was awarded the Ed Block Courage Award, recognizing his sportsmanship and resilience. Locke has stepped into a full-time starting role this season, overcoming a broken thumb that required surgery. His determination was evident as he recorded a career-high 76 tackles and made a crucial fourth-down sack against New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers.